- Home >
- Soccer >
- James Rodríguez Announces His Retirement from the Colombia National Team and Closes an Unforgettable Era
James Rodríguez Announces His Retirement from the Colombia National Team and Closes an Unforgettable Era
James Rodríguez stunned fans by announcing his retirement from the Colombia national team at 35. The legendary No. 10 closes a 15-year chapter that included three World Cups and more than 130 appearances for Los Cafeteros.
James Rodríguez is going through a pivotal moment in his career. The 35-year-old midfielder recently returned to Colombian soccer to join Atlético Nacional, ending an 18-year absence from the domestic league.
His return comes at a time when the future of the iconic No. 10 with the Colombia National Team was once again becoming a topic of discussion, especially following his participation in the 2026 World Cup.
However, this Tuesday, September 15, news arrived that completely changes James’ situation with the national team.
James Rodríguez Announces His Retirement from the Colombia National Team
James Rodríguez officially announced his retirement from the Colombia National Team, bringing an end to more than a decade wearing the famous yellow jersey.
The midfielder shared his decision through an emotional video posted on social media, accompanied by a message thanking everyone for the moments he experienced with the national team.
“The time has come. Thank you for every match, every joy, every tear, and every dream we shared,” James wrote.
The midfielder also shared a message that summed up the importance of his international career: “Defending the colors of the Colombia national team was one of the greatest honors of my life.”
The Numbers James Rodríguez Leaves Behind with Colombia
James Rodríguez’s journey with Colombia officially began on October 11, 2011, during the World Cup qualifiers. On that occasion, Colombia defeated Bolivia 2-1, and the then-young midfielder began writing his story with the national team.
His first goal came on June 3, 2012, in a 1-0 victory over Peru in Lima.
Over the years, James became a regular presence for the national team and finished with 31 goals, making him the second-highest scorer in Colombia’s history, behind only Radamel Falcao García, who has 36.
James’ final match for Colombia came on July 7, 2026, against Switzerland in the World Cup Round of 16. The match ended 0-0 before Colombia were eliminated in the penalty shootout.
The No. 10 Closes an Era and Turns His Attention to Atlético Nacional
James has just returned to Colombian soccer to wear the Atlético Nacional jersey, once again becoming one of the biggest talking points in the domestic league.
He will now turn his full attention to the challenge at club level, while Colombia begins a new era with a generation of young players capable of taking on the role that its iconic No. 10 held for so many years.
His farewell leaves behind an impressive record: 131 appearances, 31 goals, 43 assists, and three World Cups.
